I’m in Manitou Springs, Colorado, at about 6,300 feet above sea level. At this elevation, air pressure is lower and oxygen content is a bit lower. So, if you’re not used to it, exercising can be a bit taxing until your body acclimates. Also, the humidity is substantially lower than I’m used to, so eyes tend to dry out (especially noticeable if you’re wearing contacts) and you get thirsty.

But, you knew all that.

One thing you might not have known, however, is that liquids stored in bottles at sea level tend to become pressurized at higher elevations. So, that contact solution that you last opened at sea level squirts out at high pressure when you open it at 6,300 feet. The reverse happens when you head back down… and you might see the sides of plastic bottles start to implode a bit. Tip: don’t try opening pressurized mayonnaise or mustard over a bed. You will not like the results.

I had a couple of glass bottles of first aid items in my toiletry kit. They were closed very tightly, but not tightly enough, apparently. When I went to get my toothbrush and contact supplies, there was a strong smell of Liquid Bandage. Oops. Everything in the kit was moistened. I set it all out to dry overnight, and now it all has an icky feel to it. I guess I’ll have to replace some of it. Good thing my spare contacts weren’t in the kit.

Yesterday, I arrived in time to take many pictures at the Garden of the Gods. It is breathtakingly beautiful, especially at sunset. I posted a bunch to Facebook, where they can be viewed by anyone on Facebook. Here’s a sample.

Today, the plan is to drive slowly down to Santa Fe, where I will spend two nights. After that, I head to Albuquerque for the International Balloon Fiesta, and a reunion with a couple of long-time friends I haven’t seen in a few years.

Also at 6,300 feet, just about any view becomes a vista. Here’s a view from my Comfort wInndow.